Bronx-Whitestone Bridge
The Bronx–Whitestone Bridge, often simply called the Whitestone Bridge, is a suspension bridge connecting Queens and the Bronx across the East River. Opened in 1939, the bridge was built as part of the massive infrastructure improvements for the 1939–1940 New York World’s Fair. Today, it serves as one of the key roadways linking Long Island with the mainland United States, making it an essential option for commuters and travelers heading north.
History
- World’s Fair Era: Constructed in record time, the bridge opened on April 29, 1939, just one day before the New York World’s Fair. It was part of a transportation strategy designed by Robert Moses.
- Design Changes: Originally built with very slender towers and minimal stiffening, the bridge experienced noticeable swaying in strong winds. Later modifications in the 1940s and 1950s included additional trusses and bracing to improve stability.
- Modernization: Over the years, the bridge has seen ongoing upgrades, including roadway resurfacing, lighting enhancements, and the move to all-electronic tolling.
Design & Features
- Bridge Type: Suspension bridge with a sleek, streamlined design.
- Total Length: Approximately 3,770 feet (0.71 miles).
- Main Span: 2,300 feet, making it one of the longest suspension spans in the world at the time of opening.
- Roadway: Six lanes of vehicular traffic.
- Tolling: Fully cashless, with E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail.
Importance for Long Island Travelers
The Whitestone Bridge is one of the most direct routes for Long Islanders heading to the Bronx, Westchester, and New England. Located just west of the Throgs Neck Bridge, it provides:
- Connection to I-678 (Whitestone Expressway) – leading into Queens and onward to the Van Wyck Expressway and Long Island roadways.
- Connection to the Hutchinson River Parkway and I-95 – for access into the Bronx, Connecticut, and points north.
- Alternative to Throgs Neck – the two bridges work together to ease congestion, though both can be heavily trafficked during peak travel times.
Nearby Landmarks
- Queens Side: The College Point neighborhood and Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, home to the site of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs.
- Bronx Side: Ferry Point Park, which offers scenic waterfront views of the bridge and East River.
Q&A – Bronx–Whitestone Bridge
Q: Why was the Whitestone Bridge built?
A: It was constructed to provide a direct roadway between Queens and the Bronx in time for the 1939 World’s Fair.
Q: How does the Whitestone compare to the Throgs Neck Bridge?
A: The Whitestone is slightly older and has a more streamlined suspension design, while the Throgs Neck was designed with stronger trusses to handle heavier truck traffic.
Q: Can pedestrians or cyclists cross the Whitestone Bridge?
A: No, like the Throgs Neck Bridge, it is restricted to motor vehicles only.
Q: What highways connect to the bridge?
A: In Queens, the Whitestone Expressway (I-678) provides direct access. In the Bronx, it connects to the Hutchinson River Parkway and I-95.
Area Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opened | 1939 |
| Bridge Type | Suspension |
| Main Span | 2,300 feet |
| Total Length | 3,770 feet |
| Lanes | 6 (3 each direction) |
| Operator | MTA Bridges & Tunnels |
| Primary Connection | Queens (I-678 Whitestone Expressway) ↔ Bronx (Hutchinson River Parkway / I-95) |
The Bronx–Whitestone Bridge remains one of the most vital connectors between Long Island and the northeastern United States. Its location, close to LaGuardia Airport and Flushing Meadows, makes it a natural choice for travelers leaving Queens for points north. Together with the Throgs Neck Bridge, it forms a crucial transportation corridor that keeps New York City and Long Island moving.
